graphical

Graphical is an adjective used to describe things relating to graphs, diagrams, or images generated by a process. In mathematics and data presentation, graphical representations encode information visually through charts, plots, diagrams, and maps. Such representations aim to reveal patterns, relationships, and trends more intuitively than text alone.

In computer science, graphical refers to both computer graphics and visual interfaces. Computer graphics covers the creation, manipulation, and rendering of images in 2D and 3D, using techniques from rasterization to shading and animation, often accelerated by hardware such as GPUs. Graphical output is used in software, games, simulation, design, and digital media.

Graphical user interfaces, or GUIs, present interactive elements such as windows, icons, menus, and pointers, enabling users to operate software through visual metaphors rather than text commands. Graphical programming environments and visual editors allow users to construct programs, models, or workflows by manipulating graphical components rather than writing code.

In statistics and machine learning, graphical models describe dependencies among variables using graphs; examples include Bayesian networks and Markov random fields. The term graphical is also used in information design to emphasize the visual aspect of communication, distinguishing it from purely textual content.

Etymology: from graph, Greek graphein 'to write' or to draw. Overall, graphical aspects pervade science, engineering, and media as a means of representation and interaction.